We are Islington helpline delivers 1,000th package to residents in need

Islington’s community efforts to support residents affected by coronavirus reached a new milestone on Thursday (30 April), when the 1,000th support package was delivered through the We are Islington helpline.

The helpline, run by Islington Council, has been connecting vulnerable and self-isolating residents who have been affected by the pandemic with the support they need.

It is organised in partnership with local charities, community organisations and mutual aid groups, and offers assistance to those in need with food drops, medicine and other practical support.

The helpline works alongside many fantastic community projects that have delivered thousands of food parcels and hot meals, along with vital supplies, to residents at this difficult time.

The landmark 1,000th delivery was made by a member of council staff to a resident who required a food parcel, and was grateful for the support.

Since the We are Islington helpline started operating on Saturday, 21 March, local volunteers and council staff - who have had to change their normal day-to-day work to help during the coronavirus crisis - have been working tirelessly to get parcels out to those in need.

Earlier this week, councillors visited them at Islington’s food distribution centre, based in a leisure centre, to thank them for their efforts.

Cllr Una O’Halloran, Islington Council’s Executive Member for Community Development, said: “The way that Islington has united to tackle this crisis has been truly overwhelming, and I am so proud of the enormous community effort that has gone into supporting the vulnerable through the We are Islington helpline and many other fantastic local projects.

“So many people and organisations have selflessly stepped forward to do their bit to help those in need, and I am extremely grateful to each and every one of them.

“Our efforts to support the most vulnerable will continue throughout the coronavirus crisis. If you or anyone you know needs help or support at this difficult time, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the We are Islington helpline.”

The We are Islington dedicated phone line is 020 7527 8222, and is open every day, including weekends, from 9am to 5pm. Those with hearing or speech difficulties can use the Minicom line on 020 7527 1900, and residents can also email weareislington@islington.gov.uk for support.

Anyone interested in assisting with Islington’s volunteer efforts is asked to get in touch with a local organisation, go to the Voluntary Action Islington website and search “COVID19”, or email volunteer@vai.org.uk.

The Islington Giving Crisis Fund, which is being run by the local charity Islington Giving, is also taking donations, with every penny received going to people who are isolated, anxious and in need of financial support during the public health crisis.